San Francisco Arts Commission Gallery
401 Van Ness, Ste. 126,
San Francisco, CA 94102

https://www.sfartscommission.org/calendar/creating-amulets-talismans-our-communities-time-danger

I’ll be holding a hands-on workshop inviting folks to create small talismanic objects or amulets that highlight the stories, processes, and gestures that imbue them with meaning. Starting with a brief presentation about talismans and amulets and the artist’s particular interest in them, this workshop will include a hands on making session, followed by a group share out and maybe a field trip. Open to everyone!

Amulets, wards, talismans, and charms have different uses and span almost every culture in our world. They can be protective and meant to push away harm and evil influences, or they can be attractive and meant to draw in good fortune. Many of these objects are tied to specific ritual traditions and spiritual practices. While acknowledging the sanctity of those processes, this specific workshop will be grounded in the more personal and collective ways we can instill objects with this significance through our everyday work and storytelling.

Materials will be provided however participants are also encouraged to bring additional materials–particularly those that symbolize the communities they want to protect. This includes objects, images, photographs, or ephemera that speak to the people, neighborhoods, and communities that participants would like to keep safe. It is important to keep in mind that these objects will be turned into an art project so anything with sentimental value should be copied or reproduced for the purposes of this workshop.